Laser-induced plasma ignition (LIPI) has the potential to replace the spark plug ignition with the advantages of adjustable ignition position, short ignition delay time, non-invasive structure, and so on. We introduce the basic physical process of LIPI from the perspective of the generation and development of the flame kernel, and analyze the deposition and transformation of energy in ignition process. Based on the existing research, we evaluate the ignition performances of laser ablation plasma ignition, multi-point laser plasma ignition, pre-ionization laser plasma ignition and repetitive frequency pulse laser plasma ignition, and summarize the advantages and disadvantages of each method. The problems of the existing laser plasma ignition system are pointed out, which are imperfect ignition mechanism of the laser plasma ignition, the lack of research on the ignition characteristics of the non-premixed combustion system, and the high energy of the minimum ignition energy. Finally, we propose some suggestions on the future work.